Question

A) NO CHANGE B) tasks those learned before the age of about \(10,\) C) tasks, those learned before the age of about 10 D) tasks, those learned before the age of about \(10,\)

Short answer

After analyzing the punctuation, grammar, and meaning of each choice, the correct option is B) tasks those learned before the age of about \(10,\).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the sentence structure

Read the sentence and look for any grammar rules that will help you decide which option to choose. The sentence will deal with "tasks" and an age limit of around 10 years old. Step 2: Analyze the punctuation

Analyze the punctuation marks

Examine the placement of punctuation marks (such as commas) in each of the options. Remember that commas are used to create a pause, separate items in a list or to add a clause. Step 3: Check grammar consistency

Check for grammar consistency

Look for any grammar inconsistencies in each option. You should consider word choice, tense, agreement, and other grammatical aspects. Step 4: Identify the correct option

Choose the correct option

Based on your observation of punctuation and grammar, identify the option that correctly completes the sentence. Compare each choice to the original statement and consider how the changes affect the meaning. Step 5: Conclusion

State the correct choice

After analyzing the punctuation, grammar, and meaning of each choice, the correct option is: B) tasks those learned before the age of about \(10,\)

Key concepts

Punctuation Rules

Understanding punctuation is key to solving SAT grammar questions. They refine the meaning of sentences and maintain clarity. Commas are especially important.
You can use commas to:

• Create brief pauses in a sentence.
• Separate items within a list.
• Introduce or separate clauses.

In the provided sentence example, the comma after the number '10' in choice B creates a pause. This clears the connection between "tasks" and "those learned." It signals the end of the clarification about age. Proper punctuation avoids confusion and enhances readability. Always thoroughly check punctuation usage in sentence options.

Sentence Structure

Sentence structure shapes the flow and comprehension of your text. Clarity in structure is vital in standardized test preparation.
In our example, notice how different options change the sentence's meaning. Option B, "tasks those learned before the age of about 10," structures the sentence logically. It directly relates the task description to learning age.
Consistency in structure ensures the main idea isn't obscured. It ensures all parts of the sentence connect fluidly. You must always analyze the elements of each sentence choice to see which aligns best with standard English structure.

Grammar Consistency

Grammar consistency means rules are applied uniformly throughout a sentence. Lack of consistency can lead to confusion and lower test scores.
In the original step-by-step solution, choice B maintains grammatical agreement. It aligns subject-verb agreements and maintains tense throughout the clause.

• Ensure verb forms match the subject's number and tense.
• Check for cohesive word choice.
• Assess if each sentence part complements the rest.

By following these rules, you can spot awkward phrases and identify consistent grammar options. Stay alert for small inconsistencies that change the sentence's meaning.

Standardized Test Preparation

Preparation is critical for mastering SAT grammar questions. Understanding the core concepts, like punctuation rules, is essential.
Consider these strategies to improve your performance:

• Get familiar with common grammar errors tested in past exams.
• Practice identifying structural elements in sentences.
• Regularly review grammar rules, like consistency in tense and agreement.
• Take practice tests under timed conditions to improve speed.

Consistent practice allows for better recognition of each rule's application. This improves accuracy and confidence when answering grammar questions. Remember, preparation involves both understanding and practicing!